Even the announcement of a $10,000 reward in early June never led to any encouraging news for the Jackson County family.

“I think Jackson County (Sheriff’s Office) had some calls, but they haven’t notified us. I don’t think they want to give us false hopes,” Parker said.

Adams, 25, of Nicholson, was reported missing May 21, the same day his Chevrolet Malibu was found parked in a field off Brockton Loop Road outside Jefferson. Adams’ wallet, $25 cash and his cell phone were still in the car, Jackson County sheriff’s deputies said.

The family even hired a private detective out of Atlanta to assist with the investigation. He has been unable to uncover any new information, Parker said.

On Thursday, family and friends are gathering to try another avenue to reach out for information.

A prayer vigil is planned for 6:30 p.m. at Church at Southside, 100 Crooked Creek Road, off U.S. Highway 129 north of Athens. Everyone is invited.

“This is a way to come show support for Josh and to keep hope and faith present in this difficult situation,” according to a Facebook page established for Adams called “BringJoshAdamsHome.”

For Adams to leave without telling his family is not like him, according to his mother Karen Adams.

“He is family oriented,” she said, adding that he called her almost every morning.

“I’m keeping my hopes up that he’ll come home, but every day it’s getting harder,” she said. “There are a lot of sleepless nights.”

The private detective from Atlanta has cooperated with Jackson County Sheriff’s investigators, Parker said.

“He’s had to backtrack and check everybody’s story, but so far nothing,” she said.

The detective has meet with Jackson County sheriff’s investigators.

“We discussed what he was doing and what we are doing,” Sheriff’s Capt. Rich Lott said Friday. “Any help is appreciated. He’s on the case, but he’s on the same page as we are.”

The sheriff’s office most recently received a tip that Adams was seen at a Waffle House in Barrow County, but after reviewing about three hours of video it was determined it was not him, Lott said.

The family has also spread missing persons fliers in Athens and in Jackson County. Anyone with information on Adams should call the sheriff’s office at (706) 367-8718.